Students Triumph in Accountancy and Cyber Security at National WorldSkills Competition

Students from Exeter College recently made their way to the WorldSkills National Finals in Manchester to compete against thousands of young individuals and teams in the ultimate test of their ability.

WorldSkills supports young people across the world via competitions-based training, assessment and benchmarking, with members’ national teams competing to achieve world-class standards in the biennial ‘skills olympics’.

Exeter College was represented in Cyber Skills and Accounting. Lucy Doyle, Ashleigh Chambers and Christian Jones, studied a Level 3 and 4 Apprenticeship in Accountancy with the College and are now Accounting Trainees with Simpkins Edwards LLP. Their team ‘Surpassing Expectations’ came away with Gold. Emily Medland, Jack McAllister and Joanne Rogers also competed in this category.

The accountancy team were given 4.5 hours to prepare a presentation based on a zero-waste grocery shop. The following day they then presented to a panel of judges including representatives from Kaplan and the ICAEW.

Lucy Doyle said;

“We are all incredibly grateful for the opportunity to enter this competition and have learnt invaluable skills which we will carry with us through our everyday and working lives.”

Lucy Doyle and Christian Jones with their teachers at Exeter College

Programme Leader at Exeter College, Julie Rawle, said;

“The Accountancy delivery team at Exeter College are proud to have contributed to ‘Surpassing Expectations’ success. The competitors were asked to complete a case study for an ethics focused business that was looking to expand. They made full use of their AAT level 3 and 4 knowledge, including sustainability, CSR, SWOT and PESTLE analysis, to win gold in the Accounting Technician category. Congratulations to Ashleigh, Lucy and Christian!“

Connor and Luke with their Bronze WorldSkills medals

Second years Connor Pester and Luke Mcstravick are studying the T Level in Digital Support Services and came away from the competition with a bronze medal after competing against some of the leading bright talent in their field. The skills that they have developed on the T Level have helped prepare them for this competition, with the IT faculty providing mentoring and technical input at each stage of their journey.

At the competition they were tested on subjects relating to Cyber Security (ranging from Security Operations Center (or SOC) knowledge to Cisco Packet Tracer experience) and had to undertake both offensive and defensive cyber tasks that mirror real world experience.

Luke Mcstravick said;

“The competition was fierce as we had worked our way up from entry-level, where we faced 200 teams; to semi-finals where we faced 30 teams until we reached the finals where there were only 5 teams left.

“I believe what I enjoyed the most from the experience was being able to meet like-minded people to myself and Connor, which allowed me to make some, potentially, life-long friendships and memories. The memento of my medal will forever remind me of my wonderful experience competing up in Manchester for the WorldSkills 2023 Finals.”

Luke is completing his T Level industry placement with Mid Devon District Council and says;

“I couldn’t ask for a higher quality or quantity of knowledge and experience. I learn skills there that will very much be applicable to my future profession in IT and beyond and I am treated with respect.”

Connor is undertaking his industry placement with Securious based at the Exeter Science Park and will be one of the first in his cohort to complete the required hours for the T Level.

Learn more about World Skills.

Exeter College Students Wins the JISC Digital Student Award

Exeter College ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) learner Rahmatullah Omid, has been awarded the JISC Digital Student Award for positively embracing technology.

Rahmatullah Omid came to the College as a Refugee from Afghanistan, having never used a computer, and has now progressed to win an award. He started studying a Essential Digital Skills course, alongside ESOL Level 2 in Listening, Reading and Writing. Rahmatullah has now progressed onto ESOL Level 3. He said;

“I was surprised and shocked. I’m very happy to win the award. I have enjoyed my time at Exeter College. I like the teaching and my English and computer skills have improved a lot.

Speaking about the future, he said;

“I want to improve my education; I would like to go to university in the UK.”

Since 2020, we’ve experienced a world where face-to-face communication hasn’t always been possible and therefore having a grasp on digital technology and communication is vital to stay connected. This free Essential Digital Skills course is more important than ever and can help learners on the stepping stone to something else.

The course covers topics such as being responsible, legal and safe online, communicating online, and creating and editing (Word and Access/Spreadsheets).

Rahmatullah’s teacher Krisztina Tadhunter nominated him for the award after completing an 8-week computer course last year. She said;

“I am in awe and admiration of Rahmatullah’s total dedication to his studies. His positive approach and passion for technology have also proved inspirational for his peers.

“Rahmatullah’s progress in English Language and IT Skills, despite language barriers, has been truly inspiring. His drive and hard work have led to a great achievement. I am excited about where Rahmatullah will direct his talent next.”

You can find out more about free Digital Essential Skills courses at our next Open Event or call our Adult Advice Team on 01392 400170.

Exeter College Students Win Top Prizes at National Institute of Carpenters Competition

Exeter College carpentry and joinery students have scooped the top prizes at the Institute of Carpenters competition. Students were presented with their prizes in a special ceremony held at the historic Carpenters’ Hall in London.

The Carpenters’ Craft Competition is a national competition open to students of carpentry, joinery, and shop fitting. It gives outstanding students the chance to showcase their work, and have it judged by leaders in the field. Students can take part at both a regional and national level, with over 200 colleges nationwide eligible to take part.

Success in this prestigious competition gives students a head start in their chosen vocation having achieved official recognition of their exceptional skills and high calibre workmanship.

Laura Michell recently completed her Apprenticeship in Architectural Joinery and works for James Riggall Fine Joinery. She won the over 20’s prize and was the winner of the IOC Shield and the George Pysden Shield. Laura also won the over 20’s prize last year, making her the first person in the competition’s history to win the prize in the over 20’s for two consecutive years. She said;

“I completed the piece out of curiosity and for fun, to see if I could do as well as I did in the previous year. I was very pleased and completely gobsmacked to learn that I won first place again for the second year running for my age category. I am extremely proud.”

Lecturer for Carpentry and Joinery at Exeter College, Oliver Cox, went to London with the students to collect their prizes. He said;

“I’m incredibly proud to have taught Laura over her two-year apprenticeship. To be the only person to win the competition two years in a row is an amazing achievement and she should be very proud of herself.”

Exeter College student Isaac Bruce, in his first year of the Architectural Joinery Apprenticeship picked up first place in the under 20’s category and was the winner of the JMA Cup. Robin Poynter-Taylder picked up second place in the under 20’s with Tom Reid in third. Additionally, Tomi Bartole picked up third place in the over 20’s category.

Find out more about Carpentry courses at our next Open Event.

Exeter College Adult Apprentice Wins International CIPD People Management Award

An Exeter College adult learner is celebrating as it was recently announced that she won an international award. Molly Wysocki-Jones was one of thousands of people entered for the CIPD (Chartered Institute for Personnel and Development) People Management Awards.

The CIPD People Management Awards are the benchmark of excellence in Human Resources (HR), Leadership and Development (L&D) and Organisation Development (OD). Speaking about the awards, CIPD commented;

“Every year we see exceptional entries that reflect the influence and impact that the people profession has on organisations. By entering these Awards, you can showcase your best work and get the recognition you and your team deserve.”

Molly Wysocki-Jones won the award for Outstanding HR or L&D Apprentice and another Exeter College student, Laura Maker, was shortlisted in the Outstanding Student category.

Viki Howden, Lecturer for the Professional Adult Learning Faculty at Exeter College, said;

“To ensure that we are providing the best opportunities for our learners, we decided to enter them to the CIPD People Management Awards 2023. As a result, these learners had the opportunity to be tested by an expert panel and have the international exposure to recognise their hard work. We are incredibly proud of these learners’ and delighted with these results.”

Molly smiles at the camera in her graduation gown. — Molly recently attended the Exeter College graduation at Exeter Cathedral.

Molly Wysocki-Jones studied the Level 5 Learning and Development Consultancy/Business Partner Apprenticeship and now works for NHS Resolution.

“I didn’t realise that there were those learning opportunities once I was in work. It was quite exciting to see that was something that I could do. It was a really good way for me to learn on the job and have that experience whilst working. Having the option to learn with people from other organisations was a big draw for me too.”

Speaking about the award, Molly said;

“Apprenticeships are an incredible opportunity to develop such a range of skills, and after two years of hard work I was very proud to even reach the shortlist for the CIPD awards. CIPD are the benchmarking organisation for excellence within HR, L&D and OD and to be recognised amongst such leaders in my field was overwhelming yet very exciting! There was some imposter syndrome at play as I was hearing the stories of other award winners and their work, it doesn’t quite feel real that my commitment to my apprenticeship was recognised to this extent, but I am so grateful to have been a part of this year’s annual awards.

Talking about how the award will impact her career in the future, Molly added;

“Throughout my apprenticeship I felt my confidence grow both personally and professionally – it gave me the power to believe that I have the expertise and skills to deliver in my day-to-day role. It feels too easy sometimes to put ourselves down or to not accept compliments, but this experience has taught me to celebrate the wins, recognise the work that we all put into our careers and believe in ourselves that we’re worthy of the celebration.

“With the CIPD award to my name, I hope to continue to champion the expertise that the course gave me, and I know that there are such a wide range of opportunities ahead of me as I grow my career in organisational development.

Molly’s advice to those thinking about doing an apprenticeship is that it is never too late to consider a qualification and that you will benefit from the hard work for years to come.

“A large part of my role at NHS Resolution revolves around the management and support of apprentices within our own organisation. Having lived and breathed the qualification for two years, I love having the chance to support others as they consider a course, study for the qualification and complete their training. Seeing the process through from beginning to end allows me to witness the growth of colleagues across the organisation and working in a role that revolves around people, this is a real privilege to me.

“As I always say to those considering beginning an apprenticeship, they are open to everyone, of all ages and stages in their career – it’s never too late.”

Speak to the Adult Advice Team to find out more about apprenticeship opportunities or visit us at our next Open Event.

Exeter College Celebrates as Class of 2023 Triumphantly Graduates

On Friday 20 October, over 250 graduates from Exeter College proudly processed to Exeter Cathedral in an important rite of passage as they completed their degree at Exeter College. Students graduated from a wide range of programmes including Manufacturing Engineering, Early Childhood Studies, Coaching and Fitness, the AAT Professional Diploma in Accounting and Management and Leadership.

Exeter College is proud to run its Higher Education in partnership with four universities and two awarding bodies. This year, the University of Exeter, Kingston University, University of Plymouth, and Plymouth Marjon University, were all rated as Gold in the teaching excellence framework (TEF). Exeter, Plymouth and Kingston join a club of just 11% of HE providers to score triple gold. This commitment to excellence is passed on through our own teaching and learning and student experience which Higher Education students benefit from.

Two students smile at the camera in their graduation robes.

Higher Education at the College has had an exceptional year. The College reshaped and renewed its offer, with a focus on Higher Technical Education and became the first college in England to have a course kite marked as meeting the higher technical standard.

John Laramy CBE, Principal and Chief Executive at Exeter College said;

“This graduation ceremony is a significant milestone for our Higher Education students, being able to celebrate their success in the historic setting of Exeter Cathedral makes this an absolute highlight of our academic year.

“The dedication and hard work required to achieve a higher education qualification, often while working, means that today marks a huge accomplishment. We are incredibly proud of all their achievements, and we wish them all the best for their future endeavours.”

This year’s guest of honour was College alumni, Ben Page, Chief Executive of Ipsos. Ben completed his A Levels at Exeter College, then graduated from Oxford University in 1986. A frequent writer and speaker on trends, leadership and performance management, Ben has directed thousands of surveys examining consumer trends and citizen behaviour. He said;

“It was great to see how Exeter College had developed since I studied there in the 1980s – it’s a different world.

“I was very impressed by both the breadth and range of what is now on offer for students and business – and its strong partnerships with other local institutions and impact on the local economy, as well as on social mobility across the South West.”

This year’s Exeter College Award was awarded to Hazel Robson who has just graduated from the FdA in Early Childhood Studies. This award goes to the person who embodies what it is to be a higher education student at Exeter College. Outstanding achievements, overcoming hardship, resilience, and being proactive in supporting peers are all qualities that Hazel has shown during her time with the College.

Her tutor at Exeter College, Claire Tully, said;

“Hazel takes her studies very seriously and has juggled her time very well as a mature student, looking after her family and working part time in an early years setting. She has demonstrated a resilient mindset and although there have been times of struggle, she has worked hard to overcome these. She is passionate about the care and wellbeing of young children and indeed of early years professionals too.”

Two students smile at the camera in graduation gowns

Nicola Hunter and Emma Jarvis (pictured above) studied the HNC in Building Services. Emma Jarvis (right) has now progressed onto a degree at Bristol University and then hopes to do a Masters Degree in Building Services. She said;

“It’s a relief to graduate, it was a long journey but it’s good to finish it. Meeting other people in the industry was nice, we’ve got contacts now to help us in the future.” Nicola (left) added;

“I’ve gone onto Level 5 in Operations Management and going into Health and Safety and will probably do Level 6 next. We’ve had great teachers, really supportive, I would highly recommend it.”

Stewart smiles at the camera in his graduation gown

Stewart Mead (pictured above) studied the Level 4 Apprenticeship in Associate Project Management. He is an Engineering Project Manager for Premier Foods, mainly working at Ambrosia, where he has been for 19 years. Speaking about his College experience, he said;

“I am already a project manager so it’s an extension of my role and I wanted the professional credentials for what I already do.

“I would recommend it – you do have to dedicate a lot of time to it, it’s not always easy, but if your team is supportive, you will get through it. I have already applied a lot of the skills I have learnt.

“I’m delighted to be at graduation today, all the hard work has paid off for this moment and I’m excited to take what I have learnt into the future. It’s been supportive from the College and my tutor kept me on track, all in all, it’s been a very good experience.

“I also won ‘Most Inspiring’ at the Apprenticeship Awards which was a pretty big thing for me, I wasn’t expecting it, but it was the cherry on top for all the hard work.”

Emma smiles at the camera in her graduation gown.

Emma Collingwood (pictured above) studied the Diploma in Counselling after progressing from the Certificate in Counselling. She is now doing voluntary counselling for a local charity.

“I think you think of the College as something for younger people, I didn’t realise how much there is for adults and the number of different courses and the standard of the courses that they offer.

“It was brilliant, I couldn’t imagine that it would have such an impact. This really changes your life, especially with Counselling, everyone came out slightly differently to how we went in. The tutors were amazing, very different in how they work but it complimented each other. I feel lucky that we had them.”

Find out more about Higher Technical Education at Exeter College at the next Open Event on Wednesday 22 November.

College Coaching and Fitness Degree gets Certified by University of Exeter

Exeter College is excited to announce that for 2023-24 the Foundation Degree (FdSc) in Coaching and Fitness (for 18+ students) is now certificated by the University of Exeter. The University is the new validating partner for the Foundation Degree which formalises the progression route for graduates from the FdSc into year two of the BSc Exercise and Sport Sciences programme at the University of Exeter.

The Foundation Degree is a two-year programme with a progression option into year two of the Exercise and Sports Science course at the University. Studying on this course will allow individuals the opportunity to study at the College and to train and compete in British University and Colleges Sport (BUCS) competitions for the University of Exeter. This is an invaluable opportunity for those aspiring players looking for a Higher Education qualification whilst exploring playing opportunities with the University of Exeter and Exeter Chiefs.

The College’s strong links with professional sports clubs (Exeter Chiefs RFC and Exeter City FC), educational organisations (Ted Wragg Trust), and sports development organisations (Active Devon and Exeter College Sports Development), provide numerous opportunities to develop students’ applied experience in a ‘real world’ context.

Rob Bosworth, Deputy CEO and Vice Principal at Exeter College said;

“We are extremely proud of our partnership with the University of Exeter and Exeter Chiefs. We have worked together to create seamless world-class career paths for our students. This will also enable us to retain and attract high-quality male and female rugby players in the local area.”

The extensive onsite facilities at Exeter College and proximity to the University of Exeter allows for collaborative thinking and sharing of resources where needed and opens up lots of opportunities for the Exeter College based students to access sports teams and other enrichment opportunities for a real university feel.

Alison Davidson, Director of Sport for the University of Exeter said;

“We are delighted to strengthen our partnership with Exeter College to support talented athletes with their academic pathway into the University, through this new foundation degree. We are already seeing the benefits of those students joining our performance squads.”

Dr Matthew Campbell, Academic Programme Liaison for the University of Exeter on the new partnership added;

“We are thrilled to further enhance our relationship with Exeter College to now provide this exciting opportunity for students in our region. Our strengthened partnership not only allows us to contribute to the growth and development of a clear educational pathway but also enables us to make a positive impact in the local community due to the links nurtured by both the College and ourselves. By fostering academic and athletic excellence, we are collectively enhancing the prospects and aspirations of the students while enriching the area’s sports and fitness landscape.”

This course also has Higher Technical Qualification (HTQ) status which means it has been aligned to national occupational standards for sports coach, high performance coach and community coach, providing hands on practical coaching skills as well as academic learning.

Lucinda Sanders, Director of Higher Education and Adult Learning at Exeter College said;

“We are delighted to be able to offer more opportunities to study higher level coaching and fitness provision in Exeter with this Higher Technical Qualification. Our partnership with the University of Exeter has worked fantastically here, collaborating to be responsive to a local skills need for our key employer partners in the sport and fitness sector.”

It is expected that Exeter College students could make a significant contribution to the university’s High-Performance Sports Teams in the BUCS competitions with a clear and established pathway existing with the rugby teams. At least nine Exeter College alumni students represented the university in the men’s and women’s BUCS Rugby Final in the 22/23 season.

There are numerous benefits to students enrolled on the programme. They will have dual registration between the College and university, meaning they will be able to join their sports teams, access resources, and use the sports facilities.

For successful students, there will be the exciting opportunity for students to progress to the second year of the Exercise and Sports Science course at the University.

Find out more about the Foundation Degree in Science (FdSc) in Coaching and Fitness.

Exeter College’s @thirty-four Restaurant is named AA College Restaurant of the Year

The Exeter College student-run restaurant, @thirty-four is going from strength to strength. Home to the prestigious Michael Caines Academy, which recently celebrated its 10th year, it has been awarded the AA College Restaurant of the Year, the highest accolade a college restaurant can achieve. This news comes after receiving an AA Highly Commended College Rosette earlier this year.

This year’s AA College Restaurant of the Year competition challenged participating college restaurants to design an event celebrating one of three significant milestones in 2023: the 50th Anniversary of the first Concorde pan Atlantic flight, the 75th Anniversary of the founding of the NHS, or the 100th anniversary of Disney Brothers Studios. Students then had to present their ideas to a panel of judges. Exeter College chose to design their event around the 75^th anniversary of the NHS.

Students hold out awards for college restaurant

Andy Doyle, Partnerships Manager at People 1st International, judged the competition and praised @thirty-four’s approach, saying;

“The Restaurant, @thirty-four, fully hit the brief with a well-planned and researched event proposed for the 75th anniversary of the NHS. They put great thought into all elements of the brief including the marketing plan for the event and how they would utilise other departments of the college provision such as performing arts.

“They also ensured that the planned meal focussed on local produce and suppliers bringing in a sustainable approach to the whole event. Congratulations to the lecturers and chefs at Exeter College and well done to all the college teams that took part.”

Hospitality students stand out the college restaurant with their award

John Laramy CBE, Exeter College Principal said;

“Our vision is to be an exceptional college; this achievement is truly exceptional. A sector leading outcome that shows our world class partnership with Michael Caines MBE DL, our fantastic staff and the work of our amazing students.”

Freya holds up the AA Hospitality Award — Freya Hole was one of the students who presented to the judges panel.

Michael Caines MBE DL, alumni, and patron of the College, said;

“I feel incredibly proud of the students and staff for winning this amazing award, it is a true testament to all the hard work that has gone on behind the scenes by the students and the College lecturers as well.

“I think past, and present students can be proud of this progression for the College and of the restaurant itself, with the beautiful refurbishment to bring it up to modern standards. The enthusiasm from all the team behind the scenes and out front too, has turned it into an amazing experience for customers.

“It’s easy to forget this is a training facility and a training environment and yet the standard is so high in every aspect in terms of the interior, the quality of the service and of course the food that is delivered by these young people, the future of our industry. It’s such a great achievement for the College, and rightfully so, they should be incredibly proud, it is brilliant to see.”

Second year Michael Caines Academy student, Freya Hole (pictured above) was one of the students who presented to the judging panel. Speaking about the experience, she said;

“It was an amazing opportunity to be able to work with Hospitality students from all three year groups to come up with this brilliant idea. We weren’t expecting to win so I think that’s what makes it even better because never in our wildest dreams were we expecting to win.”

Tracey Bennett, Head of Faculty for Hospitality, Hair, and Beauty at Exeter College, added;

“We are all so proud of the @thirty-four Restaurant and our commercial spaces and having this validated with the Highly Commended Rosette and now the College Restaurant of the Year has been amazing for everyone, students and staff alike.”

“This is such a fantastic achievement for all the students and staff across the diverse range of courses we offer here at Exeter College. From the Michael Caines Academy, NVQ and VRQ students; they all strive to meet the high standards their lecturers set.”

Staff collect award at AA Hospitality Awards — Staff were presented with the award at the AA Hospitality Awards in London.

Find out more about our Hospitality courses at our next Open Event.

Book a table at our award winning restaurant, @thirty-four.

Apprenticeship Case Study: Somerset Council

Apprenticeships at Exeter College

An Apprenticeship is for people of all ages, 16+, to help kick-start a career in a job that suits their skills and interests, to facilitate a career change, or for people who would like to progress in their current role. With Apprenticeships now in a wide variety of sectors and roles, and at different levels, there is a programme with Exeter College for you.

Somerset Council

At Somerset Council, Catherine Temple is a Business Intelligence Analyst. They said;

“We value having apprentices in the workplace and we want to encourage both the recruitment of apprentices and upskilling of current employees wherever possible and since 2020, Somerset Council has supported 474 apprentices through various qualifications with a mixture of recruited apprentices and upskilled staff.

“Apprenticeships are becoming more of a viable option in the workplace due to the increasing variety of courses available. We are now able to support employees across all educational apprenticeship stages, GCSE to Master’s Degree equivalent qualifications.”

Read Catherine’s story below…

I started the 2 year, Level 4 Data Analytics Apprenticeship last September at Exeter College. Our class has members from Somerset Council, Devon County Council, South West Water, and various private sector companies.

The course consists of 20% “off the job” training, in the main this is one day per week at college, during college holidays we work on our portfolios and projects. I am extremely fortunate to have a supportive and understanding manager who has been invaluable at finding opportunities for me to put into practice what I am learning.

I have learnt an enormous amount since beginning my apprenticeship and it has really helped me in my day-to-day work. The friends I have made at college and our brilliant lecturer have helped me at times where I have struggled, in particular with coding which I had never done before! I have relished the learning experience, especially learning the latest analytical techniques and where best to use them. In addition, I am enjoying designing and delivering the presentations which are preparing us for the end point assessments with external assessors.

In May, I was honoured to be asked to present to the alumni at Exeter College’s digital summit. I talked about the apprenticeship, the highs, and lows, how it has helped me, how I have used what I have learnt, and what I will do next with the knowledge and experience. I received incredibly positive feedback from the attendees who said it was nice to see someone so enthusiastic and open to sharing their experience.

Learn more about Apprenticeships at our next Open Event.

Top Class Results for Exeter College Construction Students

Exeter College students completing their Construction T Level in Design, Surveying and Planning have achieved fantastic results, with 100% pass rate and top progression into employment or higher level study in the industry.

Sixth form students at the College can study a wide range of T Levels that combine classroom theory, practical learning and a three month industry placement to ensure students have the skills to thrive in the world of work.

This year’s Construction cohort have excelled both in their studies and placements and have also benefitted from a rich variety of experiences during their time at College. For example, a visit to the Glendinning quarry at Linhay Hill allowed students to find out about new technology which helps to increase the sustainability of quarrying. Students have also gained valuable insights into the industry through presentations and workshops by guest speakers, such as the Morgan Sindall Group.

Josh smiles at the camera — Joseph is now studying for a Degree Apprenticeship.

Students have gone on to secure excellent higher education and employment opportunities. For example, Joseph Bartlett (pictured above) is now studying for a Degree Apprenticeship in Quantity Surveying with Ward Williams Associates, where he completed his placement.

Joseph said; “I’ve started my Degree Apprenticeship already, and I’ll be doing that for five years. My Exeter College experience has been great; I would recommend the T Level as you can use what you’re learning in class straightaway and put it into practice on your industry placement.” 

T Level Construction students visit a quarry — Students visit Glendinning Quarry at Linhay Hill

The success of the T Level Construction students mirrors a highly successful year all round for technical and vocational students at Exeter College. These students use technical or vocational subjects as their passport to university, to an Apprenticeship, to their next level of study or directly into employment.  

For further information about study opportunities at Exeter College, visit an Open Event.

Adult Learners Excel with Outstanding GCSE Results

As thousands of young people around the country collected their GCSE results yesterday, adult learners also logged on to find out how they did. At Exeter College, adult learners take GCSEs in English, Maths and Biology every year.

Sarah Mandeno, Head of Faculty for Adult Learning at Exeter College, said;

“We are very proud of our adult learners’ progress and achievements this year. They have done brilliantly.

“Our teachers deliver an amazing learning experience and learners today have been full of praise for the outstanding teaching and support they have received.”

The College has also seen outstanding success from its 16-18 students who have collected GCSE results this week.

Adult learner, Nathan Mitchell-Campbell (pictured left above) collected his results today and achieved a brilliant 7 in GCSE English and a high 4 in Maths. He now plans to take GCSE Biology before progressing to the Access to Science course at Exeter College with the hope to study Marine Biology at university. Speaking about coming back to college, he said;

“I think as an adult, you have a much firmer choice and you’ve lived a bit, so you have an idea of what you’d enjoy and what you’d like to go into. I found as an adult I was able to make those choices more consciously and dedicate the energy where I needed it, compared to doing it when I was younger.

“It was a very relaxed environment. If I needed help, I could ask and see where I went wrong. The teachers were very kind and knowledgeable – it was just two people having a conversation and that’s why I found it so relaxing and got the grade I did.”

An adult learner sits outside and smiles at the camera — Alinu collected her GCSE results this week and hopes to move on to an Access course.

Alinu Dinu (pictured above) took GCSEs in Maths and English, achieving an incredible grade 5 and 4. Alinu, who currently works in care, hopes to do the Access to Science course with the aim of becoming a nurse. She was full of praise for the teaching and support she has received at Exeter College, saying;

“The schooling here is completely different than in Romania. You receive a lot of support and encouragement. In the beginning, I found it very, very hard. It’s not my first language. But my teacher, she was amazing. She supported me the whole time and gave me extra things to study, so I can improve myself. Thank you to our teachers. We did it!”

There is a variety of reasons for coming back into education, from wanting a change of career, to wanting to support children as they take their own GCSEs.

One such learner is Donna Drew (pictured below left) who originally wanted to take GCSE Maths to support her son. She is interested in teaching and is considering taking a PGCE next year.

Donna stands with her teacher and smiles at the camera — Donna with one of her teachers on GCSE results day

Today she achieved a grade 5 in Maths. Speaking about coming back into education, she said;

“The teachers are so supportive, aware of people’s different learning styles and skills. I’ve really enjoyed helping some of the people in my class with subjects I understood that maybe I could break down for them and that ignited that teaching bug again, approaching things from different angles.”

This success follows on from the achievements earlier in the summer by the College’s Access to HE students. This year, 95% of learners completed their programme and achieved the full 60 credits available.

In addition to this 100% of Access to Business, Healthcare and Science students completed and achieved the full 60 credits, while 80% of the Access to HE Humanities students achieved 100% Distinction credits.

Find out more about GCSE courses at Exeter College or contact our Adult Advice Team on AdultAdvice@exe-coll.ac.uk or 01392 400170.